We Need More Room!

There just isn't enough space county officials say, and they are working hard to do something about it.

Two wings were added to the Suwannee County Courthouse in 1964. County officials say the idea of adding more is one that's past due.

Johnny Wooley, Suwannee County Coordinator, said, "We now have received a special appropriation from the Legislature to assist us in adding on to the courthouse."

Right now the state attorneys, guardian ad litem, state court administration, and the public defender's offices are in rented buildings, costing Suwannee County taxpayers $170,000 a year.

The county commission plans to expand the courthouse from the rear, but that's only a temporary fix.

"The primary space being looked at for the courthouse addition is a multi-purpose room. The room will serve probably as the county commission's meeting room. It will probably also serve as an extra courtroom."

A narrow hallway separates the Suwannee County Sheriff's Office and the clerk of court's office.

Tony Cameron, Suwannee County Sheriff, said, "Everyone is sort of cramped for space. I'm fortunate that I have part of my operation in another area that the county provides me with, but it would be great to have all of my folks working under the same roof."

The commission says the long-term goal is to buy an unused lot off of Pine Avenue to hopefully solve all space problems. More details should be finalized following a meeting with contractors set for June 27.

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